How to remove Tangem ransomware

Tangem ransomware is a dangerous malware that keeps users' files encrypted until a ransom is paid

Tangem is a type of malware that acts as a file-locking virus, gaining access to a computer system and encrypting users' personal files. This malware belongs to the MedusaLocker ransomware family and uses complex encryption algorithms to encrypt various data types such as photos, videos, documents, and more. Victims are unable to access or use their data once the encryption process is complete.

To prevent thumbnail views, the affected files are renamed with the .tangem extension and the file icons are changed to blank pages. Finally, the attackers create a ransom note titled “How to back files.html” in order to inform victims of the status of their files.

The ransom note

Tangem ransomware drops a ransom note that reads as follows:

YOUR PERSONAL ID:
–
/!\ YOUR COMPANY NETWORK HAS BEEN PENETRATED /!\
All your important files have been encrypted!

Your files are safe! Only modified. (RSA+AES)

ANY ATTEMPT TO RESTORE YOUR FILES WITH THIRD-PARTY SOFTWARE
WILL PERMANENTLY CORRUPT IT.
DO NOT MODIFY ENCRYPTED FILES.
DO NOT RENAME ENCRYPTED FILES.

No software available on internet can help you. We are the only ones able to
solve your problem.

We gathered highly confidential/personal data. These data are currently stored on
a private server. This server will be immediately destroyed after your payment.
If you decide to not pay, we will release your data to public or re-seller.
So you can expect your data to be publicly available in the near future..

 

We only seek money and our goal is not to damage your reputation or prevent
your business from running.

You will can send us 2-3 non-important files and we will decrypt it for free
to prove we are able to give your files back.

Contact us for price and get decryption software.

 

email:
ithelp011@decorous.cyou
ithelp011@decorous.cyou

* To contact us, create a new free email account on the site: protonmail.com
IF YOU DON'T CONTACT US WITHIN 72 HOURS, PRICE WILL BE HIGHER.

The ransom note begins by informing the victim that their personal ID has been compromised and that their company's network has been compromised. All of their important files have been encrypted, and the only person who can solve the problem is the attacker. The attackers claim to have used a combination of RSA and AES encryption methods that no third-party software can decrypt.

The note also warns against using third-party software to restore the encrypted files, as this may permanently corrupt the files. If the victim does not pay the ransom, the attackers threaten to release highly confidential/personal data stored on a private server.

Victims should not pay the ransom because there is no guarantee that the attackers will provide decryption software even after payment is received. Furthermore, victims who pay the ransom encourage the attackers to continue their illegal activities and fund future attacks. The best course of action is to disconnect the infected device from the internet immediately and seek assistance from cybersecurity experts who may be able to help restore access to the encrypted files.

Distribution methods

While the exact method by which Tangem ransomware spreads is unknown, cybercriminals use common tactics to distribute malicious programs. One method is to install “cracked” software,^[1] which allows malicious files to infiltrate the system. It is best to avoid using torrent websites^[2] and peer-to-peer file-sharing platforms because they are frequently used to distribute various types of malware.

Another method used by hackers is to send ransomware via email. Because malicious links or attachments can be embedded in emails from unknown senders, it is best not to open them. Even if the attachment appears to be from a friend, it is best to double-check with them via another platform.

Furthermore, cybercriminals can exploit operating system or software vulnerabilities, making it critical to keep all software and operating systems up to date. Security patches are frequently released by software developers to address newly discovered vulnerabilities, and users should install these updates as soon as possible.

Start the removal process

Disconnecting the affected machine from the local network is crucial. Home users can simply unplug the ethernet cable, while corporate environments may require more complex steps, which are provided at the end of this post.

Attempting to recover data before removing the malicious files can lead to permanent loss and even result in the files being encrypted again. It is important to remove the malicious program causing the issue before attempting to recover any data. However, manual removal of ransomware is a complex process and should only be attempted by individuals with advanced IT skills. It is recommended not to attempt removal unless you have the necessary experience.

Use anti-malware tools like SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes to scan your system. This security software should find all the related files and entries and remove them automatically for you. In some cases, malware does not let you use antivirus in normal mode, so you need to access Safe Mode and perform a full system scan from there:

Windows 7 / Vista / XP

1. Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
2. When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 button (if that does not work, try F2, F12, Del, etc. – it all depends on your motherboard model) multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
3. Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.

Windows 10 / Windows 8

1. Right-click on Start button and select Settings.
   
2. Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
3. On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
4. Now scroll down to find Advanced Startup section.
5. Click Restart now.
6. Select Troubleshoot.
7. Go to Advanced options.
8. Select Startup Settings.
9. Click Restart.
10. Press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking.

Repair corrupted system files

Malware infections can cause performance, stability, and usability issues that may require a full Windows reinstallation. These viruses can modify the Windows registry database, damage crucial bootup and other system files, as well as delete or corrupt DLL files. Once a system file is damaged by malware, antivirus software cannot repair it.

Manual troubleshooting of such damage is a complex and time-consuming process. To address this issue, FortectIntego was created. It can effectively repair much of the damage caused by malware infections, such as Blue Screen errors,^[3] freezes, registry errors, and damaged DLLs. These problems can render your computer unusable, but by using this maintenance tool, you can avoid the need for a complete Windows reinstallation.

Try recovering data with third-party software

Only hackers hold the decryption key, which can unlock your files, so if you did not back them up previously, there is a good chance that you will never get them back. You can try using data recovery software, but keep in mind that third-party programs cannot always decrypt files. Whatever the situation may be, we suggest at least trying this method. Before you proceed, copy the corrupted files and place them in a USB flash drive or another external storage device. And remember – only do this if you have already removed the Tangem ransomware.

Before you begin, several pointers are important while dealing with this situation:

• Since the encrypted data on your computer might permanently be damaged by security or data recovery software, you should first make backups of it – use a USB flash drive or another storage.
• Only attempt to recover your files using this method after you perform a scan with anti-malware software.

Install data recovery software

1. Download Data Recovery Pro.
2. Double-click the installer to launch it.
3. Follow on-screen instructions to install the software.
4. As soon as you press Finish, you can use the app.
5. Select Everything or pick individual folders where you want the files to be recovered from.
6. Press Next.
7. At the bottom, enable Deep scan and pick which Disks you want to be scanned.
8. Press Scan and wait till it is complete.
9. You can now pick which folders/files to recover – don't forget you also have the option to search by the file name!
10. Press Recover to retrieve your files.